Indian Skeptic - 2008 10

Magazine Overview

Title: Indian Skeptic
Issue Date: October 15, 2008
Volume: Vol.21
Issue: No.6

This issue of the Indian Skeptic magazine, published on October 15, 2008, addresses critical perspectives on religious and paranormal claims, with a particular focus on scientific methodology. The cover features a cartoon satirizing the Catholic Church and its dogma, in response to the Pope's visit to Sydney for the World Youth Day. The magazine also delves into the work of reincarnation researcher Ian Stevenson, questioning the scientific rigor of his investigations.

Editorial and Financial Concerns

The "Editor's Page" highlights the financial struggles of the Indian Skeptic. The editor, B. Premanand, expresses difficulty in meeting the monthly expenses of Rs. 20,000/- to print and distribute approximately 2000 copies. He mentions having sold property to cover costs, including that of his murdered son. To ensure the continuation of the publication, a transition to an e-newspaper format is proposed, with a test run already conducted for overseas subscribers. Those without email addresses will not receive the publication, and their deposits may be refunded or converted into book orders with a life membership discount.

Cover Story: Catholic World Youth Day Cartoon

The cover features a cartoon titled "The Pied Piper of Vatican," which depicts the Pope leading a procession of people off a cliff labeled "Catholic Dogma" and "The Dark Ages." The cartoon is presented as a response by the Atheist Foundation to the Pope's visit to Sydney for the Catholic World Youth Day, with a call to visit www.atheistfoundation.org.au for sanity.

Article: The Life After Death - Incarnation - And Avatar

This section critically examines the concepts of soul, spirit, incarnation, and ghosts, stating that they have not been scientifically proven and are products of imagination. It references the research of the late Ian Stevenson, whose work on life after death was reportedly based on newspaper articles by a researcher named Banerjee, who was later exposed for lacking academic qualifications. The article also mentions a psychology professor from NIMHANS Bangalore who received a Ph.D. for a thesis on proving life after death, and a personal anecdote about Supreme Court Justice Mr. V.R. Krishna Iyer's purported communication with his deceased wife.

The article further discusses the case of a person claiming to be the reincarnation of Shirdi Sai Baba, questioning the consistency of such claims, particularly regarding the individual's memory of past life events and the timeline of their claims. It highlights the celebration of the subject's birth date as a means to expose the alleged lies.

Article: Reincarnation: Overview of the Work of Ian Stevenson (1918-2007)

This extensive section, presented as a dream conversation between the author (LA) and Ian Stevenson (IS), critically analyzes Stevenson's research methodology. Leonard Angel recounts his dream encounter where he challenges Stevenson's scientific approach.

Scientific Rigor and the Null Hypothesis

Stevenson defends his investigations as scientific and proper, citing his study of spontaneously generated past-life memories, children's linguistic abilities, and correspondences between birthmarks and previous wound sites. He claims to have performed mathematical calculations of probabilities and published results indicating paranormal phenomena.

However, the author (LA) argues that Stevenson failed to follow the most basic rule of scientific investigation: testing the null hypothesis. LA suggests that Stevenson's work may appear scientific but lacks proper testing, particularly in developing an experimental test to see if data contradicts the null hypothesis before proposing special hypotheses.

LA proposes a method for testing the null hypothesis by creating control groups and experimental groups to statistically compare correspondences. He explains that the null hypothesis suggests results are due to chance, and special hypotheses (like paranormal explanations) should only be considered after the null hypothesis is eliminated.

Stevenson expresses reluctance and skepticism about the feasibility and necessity of such tests, citing the immense work involved in creating control groups and the potential for people to avoid such rigorous scientific scrutiny.

Criticisms of Stevenson's Methodology

LA points out several flaws in Stevenson's research, including the potential for selective data collection and interpretation. He uses hypothetical examples to illustrate how correspondences can be found or distorted to fit a narrative. Specific criticisms include:

• Data Selection: The possibility of selecting information to show "remarkable" correspondences, even when the underlying data might not support it.
• Distorted Probabilities: Manipulating the perceived likelihood of events to make correspondences seem more significant than they are.
• Abstracting Information: Taking abstracted information and presenting it as confirmed data, such as linking a person's name to a relative's name without direct confirmation.
• Multiple End Point Problem: The issue of finding multiple potential confirmations for a single piece of information, leading to a biased interpretation.

LA argues that these are not mere bugs but "fatal flaws" that undermine the scientific validity of Stevenson's research. He suggests that Stevenson's work, while persistent and dedicated, did not adhere to the basic scientific test of eliminating the chance hypothesis.

The Dream Dialogue Continues

The dream dialogue continues with LA explaining how a control group could be constructed by mirroring the "laxity" in Stevenson's own methods of finding correspondences. This would involve listing the degrees of laxity in Stevenson's work and applying them to the creation of a control group. LA suggests that Stevenson's research alone could provide the necessary data for this.

Stevenson remains resistant, stating that such a test "won't happen" or is "difficult." LA counters that while difficult, it is not impossible, and suggests alternative approaches to address the challenge of establishing precise balances in such experiments.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are skepticism towards paranormal and religious claims, the importance of rigorous scientific methodology, and the critical examination of evidence. The editorial stance is clearly that of promoting scientific temper and rational inquiry, challenging unsubstantiated beliefs and advocating for evidence-based conclusions. The magazine appears to be a platform for disseminating critical thinking and scientific perspectives on a range of topics, from religious dogma to alleged supernatural phenomena.

This issue of the "Indian Skeptic" from October 2008, Volume 21, Issue 6, delves into themes of skepticism, rationalism, reincarnation, and the critique of religious and spiritual figures. The cover story, "He beats holy men at their own game," introduces Narendra Nayak, president of the Federation of Indian Rationalist Associations, who challenges superstitions and exposes fake godmen.

Dialogue on Reincarnation Research

The issue opens with a critical dialogue, seemingly between a skeptic (LA) and a proponent of reincarnation research (IS), likely referencing the work of Ian Stevenson. The skeptic employs hypothetical scenarios to question the rigor and validity of reincarnation research, drawing parallels to Stevenson's methodology. For instance, the skeptic questions the significance of switching research subjects based on minor similarities (like names starting with 'V') or confirming details based on superficial resemblances (like two wells and two grape vats). The core of the critique is that Stevenson's methods might be arbitrary, unreliable, and prone to confirmation bias, potentially leading to flawed conclusions about past-life memories and birthmark correspondences. The dialogue highlights the difficulty in establishing a 'mere chance hypothesis' and suggests that the standards for generating apparent correspondences in Stevenson's work might be too lax.

Narendra Nayak: Combating Superstition

The article "He beats holy men at their own game" by Jeevan Mathew Kurian profiles Narendra Nayak, a former biochemistry professor who now dedicates his life to combating superstition in India. Nayak, a rationalist, demonstrates how so-called miracles performed by holy men are mere tricks. He has conducted thousands of demonstrations across the country to expose witchcraft, black magic, and fake godmen. Nayak criticizes the 'blatant' nature of superstition in India, where godmen can even get away with crimes. He points to flawed education systems and a 21st-century technological setup with a 16th-century mindset as contributing factors. Nayak also highlights the issue of influential godmen operating above the law and the lack of comprehensive laws to control such practices. He famously offered Rs. 200,000 to anyone who could accurately predict election results, a challenge that primarily targeted astrologers, none of whom came close to the required accuracy.

Fear of the Unknown!

This section, contributed by Somu a.k.a. R.G. Rao, questions the efficacy of supernatural powers claimed by godmen, faith healers, and 'mantriks'. The author asserts that no one on Earth can perform miracles or cure illnesses with 'mantra shakti' and that rationalists have repeatedly challenged such practitioners to prove their powers, a challenge that remains unmet. The piece urges readers to consciously remove the fear of the unknown and avoid media that promotes irrational beliefs. It suggests that the tendency to believe in supernatural powers stems from ignorance about nature and the human body, and that even educated individuals often fall prey to herd mentality when faced with the mysterious. The author criticizes teachers who wear 'taviz' (amulets) and questions the quality of education they provide. The article also touches upon the lack of proper healthcare facilities in some areas, leading people to seek help from 'ghadi' (healers) or 'bhagat' (spiritual healers) for ailments, attributing recovery to them even when it's due to natural causes or the non-poisonous nature of a snake bite.

Defense of Sathya Sai Baba Sexual Abuses

A significant portion of the magazine is dedicated to addressing allegations of sexual abuse against Sathya Sai Baba. The article "DEFENCE OF SAI BABA SEXUAL ABUSES" presents a 'rationalization' of these alleged abuses, circulated by members of the Sathya Sai Organization. The defense, attributed to Ram Das Awle and supported by others like Bon Giovanni, argues that Sathya Sai Baba, as a 'Poornavatar' (full incarnation of God), can legitimately engage in sexual acts with devotees as part of his divine plan. The core argument is that these interactions are a form of 'spiritual healing' and 'divine energy' transfer, aimed at freeing souls from karma, removing obstacles to spiritual growth, and leading them to God-Realization. The text posits that such actions, though seemingly perverse by human standards, are the 'most efficient medicine' for certain souls and a 'gift of immeasurable grace'.

Tantric Traditions and Divine Incarnation

The defense draws heavily on 'left-handed tantric path' traditions within Hinduism, Buddhism, and Taoism, which involve the use of sexual energy for spiritual evolution. It argues that Western religions exacerbate the split between the sexual and the divine, making it difficult for Westerners to understand Baba's tantric work. The article suggests that Baba's actions, such as anointing a man's testicles with oil, can lead to higher consciousness and 'enormous healing' by lifting shame associated with sexuality. It claims that Baba's interactions are a way to awaken the Kundalini and remove sexual karma, ultimately leading devotees closer to God.

Ram Das Awle's Justification

Ram Das Awle, a devotee, claims to have received divine inspiration explaining Baba's actions. He rationalizes the allegations as potentially true but not contradictory to Baba being an Avatar. He proposes seven types of individuals who might interact sexually with a Divine Incarnation, including those needing divine energy, those with past-life sexual karma to remove, and those with unhealthy psychological splits between sexuality and spirituality. Awle believes that Baba's actions, even if they risk his reputation, are ultimately for the devotees' liberation and are a mark of a truly great Master.

The 'Purna Avatar' Concept

The defense emphasizes Sathya Sai Baba's status as a 'Purna Avatar', citing prophecies and testimonies from various spiritual figures. It contrasts his 'miracles' with those of ordinary yogis, suggesting that Baba's continuous display of powers over decades is evidence of his divine status. The text argues that Baba's interactions, even sexual ones, are a manifestation of divine love and a means to facilitate spiritual evolution, ultimately aiming for the devotees' union with God.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

This issue of "Indian Skeptic" strongly advocates for rationalism and critical thinking, particularly in the realms of paranormal claims and religious phenomena. The critique of Ian Stevenson's reincarnation research and the exposé of fake godmen by Narendra Nayak underscore the magazine's skeptical stance. However, the extensive defense of Sathya Sai Baba's alleged sexual abuses, framed within tantric traditions and the concept of a divine incarnation, presents a complex and controversial perspective within the issue. While the magazine generally promotes skepticism towards supernatural claims, this particular section appears to engage with and attempt to rationalize controversial spiritual practices, potentially reflecting a nuanced or divided editorial approach to spirituality versus outright debunking when dealing with figures of significant spiritual following.

This issue of Indian Skeptic, dated October 2008, delves deeply into the controversial allegations of sexual misconduct against the spiritual figure Sai Baba. The publication presents a defense and interpretation of Baba's actions, framing them not as abuse but as divine interventions for the spiritual evolution and karmic cleansing of His devotees. The magazine explores the concept of divine avatars acting in ways that may appear unconventional or even morally questionable by human standards, but are ultimately seen as perfect and necessary for the spiritual progress of souls.

Sai Baba's Actions as Divine Intervention

The central argument of the issue is that Sai Baba, as an incarnation of God (a Poornavatar), engages in actions, including those with sexual connotations, for specific spiritual purposes. The article posits that such contact can be a 'potent blessing' to awaken spiritual power or, more significantly, to remove deeply ingrained sexual karma from past lives. This is likened to a 'Divine Doctor' performing 'karmic surgery' to heal souls burdened by lifetimes of misuse of sexual energy.

Reasons for such interactions are categorized into seven types: providing divine energy, removing past sexual karma, erasing patterns of sexual desire, addressing special health needs (like hormonal power or sexual dysfunction), preparing souls for incarnation as high beings, interacting with souls destined to be His devotees in future lives, and healing psychological splits between sexuality and spirituality. The article emphasizes that Baba's actions are driven by infinite divine knowledge and are intended to lead souls towards union with God, regardless of how they are perceived by the ignorant masses.

Historical and Spiritual Precedents

To support the idea that divine figures may act in unconventional ways, the article draws parallels with other revered spiritual masters. It mentions Lord Rama, Krishna, and Padmasambhava, highlighting their interactions with women and suggesting that divine incarnations are not necessarily bound by conventional morality or celibacy. The stories of Krishna's play with the Gopis and Padmasambhava's numerous consorts are presented as examples of divine beings working through human sexuality.

Tests of Faith and Divine Play

The issue frames the current controversies surrounding Baba as a 'test' for His devotees. It suggests that these challenges are designed to determine the depth of faith and devotion, pruning the Sai organization of those not ready for association with the Avatar. The article draws an analogy to a strong wind blowing away chaff, leaving only the firm kernels. It also posits that Baba, as the 'Cosmic Author, Producer and Director' of the universal movie, intentionally creates such situations to challenge human judgment and lead individuals to a deeper understanding of God's all-encompassing nature.

Addressing Criticisms and Misconceptions

The article directly addresses potential criticisms, such as the idea of hypocrisy or Baba being 'gay'. It refutes these by reiterating Baba's status as an Avatar – desireless, infinite, and beyond human categories. The concept of 'maya' (illusion) is introduced, suggesting that Baba's actions may appear wrong due to our limited vision and rigid concepts of holiness. The article argues that Baba's actions, even if they appear unloving or unrighteous, are a reflection of the karma He is taking from individuals and are ultimately for the highest good.

Personal testimonies are included, such as the story of Murali, an American woman who claims to have been healed of cancer by a divine visitor who later revealed himself to be Sai Baba. This is presented as evidence of Baba's divine identity and power.

The Nature of Divine Action

Ultimately, the magazine argues that judging an Avatar by human standards of 'right' and 'wrong' is inappropriate and akin to a child trying to understand quantum mechanics. It suggests that only another God-Realized Master can fully comprehend the actions of an Avatar. The choice for devotees is presented as one of faith, based on inner experience and the testimony of ancient sages and modern masters, or doubt and judgment, which leads to a loss of a precious opportunity for spiritual growth.

Other Content

Beyond the main focus on Sai Baba, the issue includes brief mentions of unrelated news items: a note about solar eclipses and their significance, and a report on a Supreme Court hearing regarding the sentencing of Swami Shraddhananda for murder. There is also a forwarded email expressing outrage over perceived disrespect to the Indian national flag by a spiritual leader named Mataji Nirmala Devi.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the nature of divine incarnation, the concept of karma and its removal, the role of faith and devotion in spiritual practice, and the idea that divine actions may transcend human morality. The editorial stance is clearly in defense of Sai Baba, interpreting His controversial actions through a spiritual lens that emphasizes divine purpose, karmic cleansing, and spiritual evolution, urging readers to approach the situation with faith rather than judgment.

Title: Indian Skeptic
Issue: Vol. 21, No. 6
Date: October 2008
Publisher: Indian Skeptic
Country: India
Language: English

This issue of Indian Skeptic features a prominent article detailing the legal proceedings surrounding the murder case of Swami Shraddanand, focusing on the Supreme Court's deliberation over his punishment. The magazine also includes a comprehensive list of books authored, edited, or published by B. Premanand, along with a 'Skeptic Book-Club' selection.

Death or Life Term for Shraddanand?

The lead article, "Death or life term for Shraddanand?", reports on the Supreme Court's reserved verdict regarding the punishment for Swami Shraddanand, who was found guilty of murdering his wife, Shakereh. The case presented a "vertical division" within the 2-judge bench of Justices S.B. Sinha and Markandey Katju. While both justices agreed on Shraddanand's guilt in killing Shakereh, an ex-wife of a former Indian High Commissioner to Australia, Akbar Khaleeli, they differed on the appropriate sentence.

Justice Sinha felt that a life term would be adequate, whereas Justice Katju advocated for the death penalty, aligning with the trial court's decision in May 2005, which was also concurred by the Karnataka High Court. Shraddanand, whose original name is Murali Manohar Mishra, was convicted of murdering Shakereh by administering sedatives and then burying her body in a coffin in the backyard of their Bangalore residence in 1991. Shakereh had married Shraddanand in 1986, after divorcing Khaleeli in 1985. She had executed a general power of attorney and a will in Shraddanand's favor shortly before her death.

Due to the split opinion on punishment, the matter was referred to a three-judge bench comprising Justices B.N. Agrawal, G.S. Singhvi, and Aftab Alam, who reserved their verdict. The Karnataka standing counsel, Sanjay Hegde, argued that the lower courts were correct in awarding the death sentence, citing Shraddanand's motive of financial gain and his subsequent actions of burying the body and living luxuriously as if nothing had happened.

The defense counsel, while acknowledging the inevitability of conviction, argued that the case did not fall under the "rarest of rare" category warranting the death penalty, suggesting life imprisonment would suffice.

Shakereh's daughter from her first marriage, Sabah Khaleeli, had lodged a missing person complaint in April 1991. The police exhumed the grave in March 1994, recovering Shakereh's skeleton and arresting Shraddanand. In May 2007, the Supreme Court had upheld Shraddanand's conviction and allowed Sabah to claim her mother's remains for last rites.

Books by B. Premanand

The second page of the magazine lists numerous books authored, edited, or published by B. Premanand, a prominent figure associated with Indian Skeptic. These books cover a wide range of topics, including critiques of religious figures and claims, paranormal phenomena, social issues, and historical subjects. Titles range from "Lure of Miracles" and "Satya Sai Greed" to "Science Versus Miracles" and "Murderson in Sai Baba's Bed Room." The list also includes the "Indian Skeptic - 10 Years' Index" and details for ordering these publications, specifying prices in Indian Rupees and US Dollars. The ordering information directs readers to B. Premanand, Convener, Indian CSICOP, with contact details for mail orders and payment methods.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue strongly reflects the skeptical and rationalist stance of the Indian Skeptic publication. The focus on the Shraddanand murder trial highlights a critical examination of justice, punishment, and the legal system, particularly concerning sensational cases. The extensive book list by B. Premanand further underscores the magazine's commitment to promoting critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and debunking paranormal claims and religious dogma. The editorial stance is clearly in favor of rationalism and evidence-based reasoning, as evidenced by the nature of the featured content and the publications promoted.